Independence Local Schools Alumni Association Honors Two Educators of Excellence

When Independence High School (IHS) alumni reunite, conversations naturally drift toward memories of classmates, teachers, and cherished moments from their school years. Laughter fills the room as graduates reminisce about favorite lessons, inspiring mentors, and the lasting impact of their education.

Recognizing the profound influence of educators, the IHS Alumni Association established the "Educator of Excellence" award to honor outstanding teachers who have shaped generations of students. Each year, a selection board carefully reviews nominations, a task made challenging by the overwhelming admiration alumni hold for their former teachers.

This year, the Alumni Association proudly recognized two distinguished educators for their dedication and impact. Mr. Mike Gruber, who has been inspiring students at Independence Primary School for 15 years, and Mr. Gene Michaels, a former high school business teacher who shaped students’ futures during his 32-year tenure from 1961 until his retirement in 1993.

Mike Gruber: A Legacy of Creativity and Innovation
Mike Gruber has been the Independence Primary School art teacher since 2010. He has the privilege and responsibility of teaching each child in grades kindergarten through fourth grade for one hour each week for those five years. Over the years, he has taught every student now graduating from Independence High School—with his first students now graduating from college.

Gruber’s kindness, humanity, dedication, and professional excellence guide his focus for each child. “Art education plays a crucial role in every child’s academic journey,” says Mr. Gruber. “Creating an inviting and comfortable environment is a fundamental aspect of my job. By nurturing creativity and boosting confidence in every student, we can counterbalance the many challenges they face.”

Gruber’s influence extends far beyond the classroom, as he has introduced students to art in innovative and engaging ways. He has led the creation of large-scale murals, collaborative projects, and unique art experiences, such as recreating the Van Gogh Immersive Room at the Cleveland Art Museum using synchronized digital projections in the school gymnasium. His commitment to showcasing student talent is evident in projects displayed throughout the district and in notable locations like the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and coming soon the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

In November 2024, Gruber was recognized as the 2024 Northeast Region Outstanding Art Teacher by the Ohio Art Education Association, a testament to his excellence in education and his passion for nurturing creativity. His leadership extends beyond the classroom, offering unique opportunities such as a new drone flying club, which has seen overwhelming student interest.

Gruber’s passion for sports is also a gift to Independence Local Schools. Starting in 2012, this will be his 13th season with IHS baseball. It is common to see three generations of Grubers at IHS baseball games—Mr. Gruber, his father, and his son, who is in 1st grade. Additionally, he has spent two years with the girls’ golf program, and he is currently the head coach for IHS’ girls’ varsity golf. For seven years, he was the Middle School Athletic Director. All these activities allow him to continue to engage with students from kindergarten through 12th grade and continue bonds even after they graduate.

Gene Michaels: A Legacy of Business and Mentorship
Gene Michaels, a beloved business teacher at Independence High School, dedicated 32 years to shaping students' futures from 1961 until his retirement in 1993. His journey began in Lorain, Ohio, where he developed a passion for local sports and statistics before serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He trained as a Military Policeman and was stationed in Korea, where he assisted with the return of U.S. POWs after the Armistice in 1953.

After completing his service, Gene, and his wife Carol, pursued higher education at Ohio State University. In 1961, both accepted teaching contracts in Independence, with Carol teaching first grade and marking the start of Mr. Michaels’ long tenure at IHS. Teaching business education in the newly built high school, he played an essential role in preparing students for careers in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

Beyond the classroom, Michaels was a dedicated homeroom teacher for 10th grade and contributed to the student-run concession stand near the old football field. His impact extended into the community, where he and Carol raised their three children—Paul, Greg, and Karen—who all graduated from IHS and pursued careers in healthcare.

Michaels was also the advisor for the IHS Key Club, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club. He used that relationship with a wide range of business professionals “to bring the world into the classroom” on a nearly weekly basis, showing students career opportunities that existed so they could see how they might fit in and the skills they needed to be successful. He also leveraged the Key Club relationship to get IHS students into the Richfield Coliseum to hand out gifts to bolster attendance at Cavalier games—and, of course, to see the games.

Michaels was the first Independence golf coach and coached from 1962 to 1990. As a father of three IHS students, he was heavily involved in a wide range of youth sports, from wrestling to softball, ticket sales, and even announcing at varsity football games.

He was one of the founders of the Independence School Employees Credit Union and served as the secretary/treasurer for 25 years.

Michaels’ philosophy was to be firm but fair, treating each student as he would his own children. His goal was to teach students the technical skills necessary to be effective in the business world and the personal skills they needed to thrive in an office environment.

Many of Michaels’ students went on to become successful business leaders and community figures, with several former students now serving as City Council members.

After teaching at IHS for 32 years from 1961 to 1993, the Michaels family left Independence after their three children were in college. Having developed an interest in horses and trainers at Northfield, they subsequently moved to their 57-acre property in Coshocton, Ohio, where they continue to enjoy their children, grandchildren, and horses.

To celebrate their achievements, the Gruber and Michaels families, former students, alumni, faculty and staff gathered on March 10 in the High School Media Center for a special luncheon in their honor. The event was filled with heartfelt stories, expressions of gratitude, and a shared appreciation for the educators who continue to leave a lasting mark on Independence students.

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